I have a question, Is there a general purpose/ Do-All Router that you guys would recommend.The only router experience I have is with a friends very old craftsman 2 HP plunge. I cut nice, but the plunge was not smooth at all.Am I right in thinking a plunge router can do everything a fixed base can plus plunging? Is a combo kit with both bases worth the extra?Is variable speed worth the extra money or do you usually use the same speed.I realize every router has its place, I am just looking for a place to start with a router that can do Most things.Is 1 ¾ big enough? 2 ¼ ?I know Freud is a great name and quality and I know they will last longer but for occasional use in a small garage shop do they really cut better?I like to buy quality tools but also want to get the most bang for my buck, I have tools from many different brands so the specific name does not mater to me!Budget is around $200 I am considering this http://cgi.ebay.com/NIB-Dewalt-DW621-Plunge-Router-15-pc-Freud-Bit-Set_W0QQitemZ220468563365QQcmdZViewItemQQptZRouters_Bits?hash=item3354f34da5&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14Or maybe this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200375226265&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:ITThe tool reviews I have read here are great but still looking for advice.Thanks in advance for your advice.JohnnyP

I’ll third the Bosch 1917 combo pack. I got it at rockler a few years back, they had a sale on it – and they were giving it with the straight edge/circle guide which is fantastic. I think they are running the same sale these days – check with Rockler.com or your local store.

I don’t think you would go wrong with either the Dewalt or Milwaukee. I have a Bosch router and in my previous workshop the motor housing corroded so much it became a real pain to adjust the depth. For that reason, I would never buy another Bosch router. Just my two cents. I have a Milwaukee 5625-20 in my router table. It was purchased 2 or so years ago and I’ve had no complaints. I’m about to buy another router, this time a Dewalt. It is solid and has all of the features I’m looking for. You should go with one with soft start and for most operations a 2 1/4 will be all that you’ll need.Freud makes good quality router bits and that seems like a good deal at ebay. Whiteside is another quality router bit manufacturer. For a starter set, check out http://www.mlcswoodworking.com/. I purchased a set from them 9 years ago and still use those bits—they are not the best but you can’t beat the prices.Hope this helps.

Paul – the link you posted is the same router that Sam linked to – only comes with the edge guide -which is SUPER! (and free in this case) this is the same package that Rockler is selling these days for the same price, and Amazon you don’t pay tax, nor shipping! go for it – seriously.

as for the Dewalt 2.25hp router – it was my first router, and it was returned 2 days after purchasing it to the store. the height adjustment ring is made of plastic, and easily breaks off.

I will have to second the Bosch 1617 nomination. I have had it for about 2 yrs and it has been wonderful. The plunge base is easy to set up and the action is smooth. My only complaint are the Bosch bushings, cheap pressed metal. I would and did buy a universal base and PC bushings

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Io have all porter cables and have had them for prolly 10 years or more with no issues except one.. If the base or housing gets chips in between each other and mars or scratches the surfaces.. Then adjusting becomes kind of a pain.. I had this happen but solved the problem by filing out the bur that was causing the trouble..other than that..they are great.. I would love to try the other brands though..